NHL: Defense key for Blackhawks

CHICAGO — Sure, the Chicago Blackhawks have no shortage of skilled forwards with a history of clutch goals.

Scoring against the defending champions isn’t easy, either.

The Los Angeles Kings found out just how difficult it can be during Sunday’s 3-1 loss in Game 1 of the Western Conference finals, whether they were being stopped by goalie Corey Crawford or one of his teammates. The best-of-seven series continues Wednesday in Chicago.

"We had a lot of good opportunities," Kings coach Darryl Sutter said Monday. "I think you have to give Crawford a lot of credit."

Crawford continued his strong postseason play with 25 saves in Chicago’s third consecutive win. He has allowed three goals during the streak, and his 1.90 goals-against average leads the NHL.

But it isn’t just the guy in net. Chicago’s defense has stepped up, too.

The Blackhawks shut down the Kings’ top line of Dustin Brown, Anze Kopitar and Marian Gaborik, who came in with 16 goals and 24 assists in 14 playoff games.